National Civil Rights Museum

On Thursday, Oct. 17, the Museum will close at 2:00 pm in preparation for 33rd Freedom Award. Guests may purchase museum tickets until 1:00 pm with one hour to see the exhibits. Please plan your visit accordingly. We apologize for any inconvenience.

#OnThisDay in 1968, American sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos made history at the 1968 Summer Olympic Games in Mexico City. After winning gold and bronze in the 200-meter race, they raised their black-gloved fists in a powerful and iconic protest against racial discrimination and human rights abuses in the U.S. during the ceremony. Their brave act marked a defining moment in the civil rights movement, solidifying their status as true heroes. Their remarkable actions are still celebrated today as a pivotal chapter in Olympic and civil rights history. DYK: This sparked controversy and led to their suspension from the U.S. Olympic team by the U.S. Olympic Committee two days later?

Join us live on LinkedIn 10/17 at 10:30 AM for the 2024 Freedom Award Student Forum! Learn more at https://lnkd.in/emffBgkr

#OnThisDay in 1932, comedian and activist Dick Gregory was born in St. Louis, Missouri. Widely known for his strong stance against the Vietnam War and his efforts in promoting civil rights, he used his platform to bring attention to social and political issues. His fearless approach to tackling controversial topics set him apart in the world of comedy. Mr. Gregory's influence extended to his work as a writer, where he authored several books, including an autobiography that shed light on his experiences and perspectives. His legacy continues to inspire comedians and activists alike, making him a pivotal figure in American history. Among his most notable accomplishments were his focus on racism and police brutality in his issues-related comedy and the early vegetarian movement. #DidYouKnow: He was present at the opening of the National Civil Rights Museum and Spoke at the first #FreedomAward Luncheon in 1991?

Join us in welcoming @MCLyte to Memphis as the 2024 Freedom Award MC! We're thrilled to have her lead the ceremony and celebrate this momentous occasion with us. Don't miss out on this unforgettable event - secure your tickets now at https://tr.ee/fn8QRLG0bg! #NCRMFreedomAward #HistoryMovesUsForward

#OnThisDay in 1969, civil rights activist, attorney, and 2016 Freedom Award honoree @attorneycrump was born. Throughout his career, Benjamin Crump has been at the forefront of advocating for justice and civil rights. He has represented the families of Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, George Floyd, Tyre Nichols and many others, seeking justice and accountability in cases of racial injustice and police brutality. His work continues to be instrumental in sparking important conversations and advocating for change in the United States. #ThankYou #Civilrights #HumanRights #FreedomAward #historymovesusforward

Let's take a moment to celebrate Arlinda F. and Veda McNeil Ajamu from the museum’s DEI and Community Engagement team for receiving Vitalant’s "Community Blood Drive Coordinator of the Year" Award. “We were originally scheduled to host Vitalant for a blood drive during our King Day event, but it had to be rescheduled due to bad weather. Instead, we incorporated the drive into our Juneteenth Community Day, which focused on Health Equity. Vitalant exceeded their donation goal,” said Veda Ajamu. We value the collaborative relationship we’ve built with Vitalant and look forward to continuing our partnership in creating positive impacts in our community!

We just wrapped up two days of instructive and inspiring work with our members in Memphis. Our meetings involve intensive discussions where big city health commissioners can both exchange strategies and challenges with each other, as well as interact with federal and funding partners. Thanks to our exceptional hosts at Shelby County Government Health Department, we enjoyed an amazing day at the National Civil Rights Museum. In the afternoon we received an excellent guided tour, which left us all reflecting on this country's centuries of civil rights struggle and our place in it. We are so grateful for this time we have together.

#OnThisDay in 1993, Toni Morrison made history as the first Black woman to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature. She was awarded for her exceptional contributions to American literature and her profound exploration of the Black experience. Her novels, characterized by visionary storytelling and poetic language, have made an indelible impact, enriching the understanding of the complexities of American society and history. Morrison's work has been celebrated for its powerful portrayal of the African American culture and the universal themes of love, identity, and oppression. Image Credit: The New York Times

SCHD had the honor of hosting the Big Cities Health Coalition Member and Board meetings over the last few days, and I’m so happy that Big City Health Directors and CDC leadership got to experience what I already know….the beauty, resilience, and unbelievable grace of the place I call home, Memphis and Shelby County!!! BIG BIG THANKS to Dr. Russell Wigginton and the entire team at the National Civil Rights Museum for capping off our first day with a reminder of why we ALL do what we do, BB King’s Blues Club All Star Band for blowing a group of us away with a phenomenal set on a MONDAY NIGHT🥰, and the Hyatt Centric for making our guests super comfortable. And most of all, SPECIAL THANKS to the BCHC team led by Executive Director Chrissie Juliano and Board Chair Raynard Washington, and the Shelby County Government Health Department team who NEVER cease to amaze me!!!!! Thank you for being BRILLIANTLY WONDERFUL examples of what public health is truly all about!! #BCHC #SCHDPROUD!!!!!!